Friday, April 4th, 2008

The Olympics in Beijing is coming! What should I bring?

First I would like to say that I am jealous of everyone that is going to the Olympics 2008 in Beijing! But for those who never been there before I have some advice to share. The last time I have been there was about three years ago and my first time was eight years ago. Granted that three years ago China maybe significantly different from what it is now. It’s almost like comparing dog years to human years. The first time I went to China it was bicycles on dirt roads, few places had running water, and they never even heard of a credit card, the last time I went it blew my mind countless Mercedes and BMWs on eight lane highways, five star hotels and restaurants everywhere you look, and yes American Express don’t leave home without it. Anyway back to the topic, here some things you can bring to be prepared:

1.       A handbag with zipper closure, even though China is no longer the third world country we once thought it was, poverty and theft is still very much at large. Recommended: Rioni is rather meticulous at making all their handbags with zipper closures.

2.       English to Chinese (Simplified) electronic translator, in case you need something you can type it in English and show them the Chinese if they do not understand. Recommended: ECTACO iTRAVL

3.       An unlocked, quad band, GSM mobile phone, whew that was a mouthful. These are sometimes called a world phone; make sure you purchase a SIM card immediately when you get to China. Recommended: Motorola Razor this is fairly inexpensive phone with all the listed hardware.

4.       Travel sized tissues and toilet paper. Most places in China are not accustomed to using as much tissues napkins as we are. Recommended: Kleenex Pocket Packs

5.       Feminine Hygene products, this is important because during my stay I had a very hard time finding a store that carried tampons. Recommended: Tampax Pearl

6.       Your passport and ID along with a color copy of your passport and ID; put it separate from you real passport. Recommended: Rioni’s Air Travel Organizer.

7.       An extra duffel bag for souvenirs, memorabilia, and gifts. Recommended: A duffel bag, if you want to go fancy, Rioni’s Duffel Bag.